The Pittsburgh Steelers are busy watching all of the talented prospects working out at the NFL Scouting Combine, but recent news just broke that could have a major impact on their offseason plans. While Aaron Rodgers remains the favorite to return as the starting QB in 2026, a new name may end up entering the QB carousel for Pittsburgh.
According to NFL insider Tony Pauline, the Minnesota Vikings are actively looking for a new starting QB, as they attempt to move on from 2024 first-round pick J.J. McCarthy.
McCarthy struggled mightily in his first season as the Vikings' starting QB. Injuries limited him to 10 games, and despite going 6-4 in his starts, it appears that they may be ready to move on.
If McCarthy really is on his way out of Minnesota, it could have major implications for the Steelers.
The Pittsburgh Steelers must pay attention to the situation playing out in Minnesota
The news of the Vikings' impending QB upheaval could impact the Steelers on multiple fronts, the most obvious being a potential trade for the struggling McCarthy. Buying low on a player who just two years ago was the 11th pick in the draft, and clearly needs a reset after two injury-riddled seasons, could be a savvy move from general manager Omar Khan.
Fans may not like the idea of giving up assets for a QB coming off an 11-touchdown, 12-interception season, but we have seen multiple QBs who failed at their first stops thrive when given a second chance over the past half-decade.
Seattle Seahawks QB Sam Darnold is the prime example, and it ironically was his 2024 season with Minnesota that reignited his career. Maybe that only makes McCarthy's poor play look even more concerning, but he is a much younger player who missed his entire rookie season.
The Vikings may no longer believe in him, but he will almost certainly get another shot to prove himself, whether it's in Pittsburgh or somewhere else.
The other potential impact from the fallout in Minnesota could affect the Steelers' 2026 plans specifically. All reports suggest that it's Steeler or bust for Rodgers in 2026, but what if the Vikings show interest after passing on him a year ago?
If they are determined to find a suitable starting option for 2026, there aren't many better options out there on the trade market or free agency. Taking a swing on Malik Willis or trying to lure Daniel Jones away from the Colts could make sense, but there will be serious competition for their services. With Rodgers, all they would need to do is convince him they can compete for a Super Bowl with him at QB, which wouldn't be hard, given all of the talent they have on both sides of the ball.